Us Congress Senate Bill SR135

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23

Caption

A resolution designating March 18, 2023, as "National Osceola Turkey Day".

Impact

This designation serves to bring attention to the conservation and management efforts undertaken in Florida regarding the wild turkey population, particularly the Osceola subspecies, which can only be found in peninsular Florida. The resolution also promotes the Wild Turkey Cost Share Program, the largest public-private partnership designed to maintain turkey habitats, contributing positively to wildlife management and education about sustainable hunting practices in the state. The recognition of this day seeks to enhance appreciation for both the species and responsible hunting as a traditional practice.

Summary

SR135 is a resolution designating March 18, 2023, as 'National Osceola Turkey Day'. The resolution highlights the significance of the Osceola wild turkey in the cultural and historical traditions of the United States, pointing out that wild turkey has been a staple in many holiday meals, particularly during Thanksgiving. The resolution acknowledges the economic impact of turkey hunting in the United States, estimating a contribution of approximately $128.7 million annually, indicating the importance of this practice to local economies.

Contention

While the resolution itself does not seem to incite significant contention, it operates within a broader context of wildlife management and the cultural significance of hunting in the state. Given that turkey hunting is subject to various regulations and environmental considerations, the acknowledgement of a day specifically for the Osceola turkey could be interpreted as an endorsement of sustainable hunting practices. However, arguments around wildlife protection versus hunting rights could arise as stakeholders discuss the implications of such designations and the potential pressures on local wildlife populations.